ABERDEEN, S.D. — Nearly 200 student-athletes and coaches from Northern State University teamed up with United Way of Northeastern South Dakota for the annual Day of Champions, completing service projects across Aberdeen and surrounding communities.

The Day of Champions, which began in 2002 as a collaborative service initiative between Northern and the United Way, has grown into a cornerstone of community engagement. Since its inception, more than 3,400 NSU student-athletes have completed more than 292 projects, contributing more than 22,200 volunteer hours, an estimated $394,316 in donated labor.

This year's event included 20 host sites, where volunteers supported a wide range of organizations including the Aberdeen Area Humane Society, Aberdeen Community Theatre, Boys and Girls Club, Sanford Medical Center, Salvation Army, YMCA and Avera St. Luke's Hospital, among others.

"Day of Champions provides a chance for our student-athletes to step beyond competition and give back to the community that supports them at every opportunity," said Nate Davis, director of athletics at Northern State University. "I am always incredibly proud of the way our teams show up, with energy, a positive attitude and ready to make an impact. This day reflects what the culture of NSU has been built on and representing the Wolves with a great sense of pride and purpose."

Aaron Schultz, executive director of United Way of Northeastern South Dakota, emphasized the impact the event has on both students and the community.

"Just seeing the student-athletes give back to the community shows that this is an extension of the classroom," Schultz said. "When they are out in the community, they're not only representing themselves, but also Northern State and the entire community. What they're showing is that giving back is part of the educational process here at Northern. The community supports Northern athletics, and this is a way for student-athletes to return that support. It's truly a symbiotic relationship."

Schultz added that the enthusiasm of the student-athletes stands out each year. "They're always asking what else they can help with," he said. "It's great to see them working with such a positive attitude."

Sean Blackburn, dean of students at Northern State University and president of the United Way of Northeastern South Dakota Board of Directors, said the experience leaves a lasting impression on participants.

"Not only do they do this service, but they enjoy it," Blackburn said. "They talk about it beforehand and afterward. They have a great time, and they're grateful to be part of the community."

For first-year women's basketball player Ava Hanson, this year marked her first Day of Champions, a meaningful opportunity to give back to her hometown.

"I've lived in the Aberdeen community since I was born, and this community means the world to me," Hanson said. "The people show up to everything. They support me." Hanson volunteered at Avera St. Luke's Hospital, assisting with outdoor cleaning projects. "It's just amazing to come out and do what people do for us every single day and support our community," she said.

Eric Schwan, director of facility services at Avera St. Luke's and a former NSU football and track and field athlete, participated in the inaugural Day of Champions in 2002. He said the event benefits nonprofits by providing help with projects they may not otherwise have time to complete, while also giving community members a chance to connect with the student-athletes they support throughout the year.

Through initiatives like Day of Champions, Northern State University continues to emphasize the importance of service, leadership and community connection, values that extend far beyond the classroom.